If you've been hunting for a lovely abode inside a rusty shell wedged between a railway line and a scrap yard on a challenging plot in central London for under a million pounds, you're in luck.
Designed by UK firm Undercurrent Architects, the 1,600-sqft Archway Studios property is actually an award-winning live-workspace built in and around a 19th-century Victorian rail viaduct, masterfully contrasting rugged steel exteriors with light-filled and expansive interior spaces.
"Archway Studios occupies part of a rail viaduct; a vaulted workshop linked to an atrium with residential alcoves," explains the project description on the architects' website. "The design works with the contrast between the compressed, cavernous qualities of the arch – and the slender, ecclesial spaces of the atrium."
"The site is severely constrained by its narrow plot and limited access to light, aspect and views. The building subverts these tight site conditions, encapsulating light and lofty interiors that offer release in spite of constraint."
"A ring of slender steel foils mould the narrow site, forming a protective acoustic shell cupped around interior spaces. Daylight is scooped into the deep recesses of the arch through slits in the segmented foils, providing privacy and introspection while maintaining connections with the surroundings."
"The building’s unique design and appearance helps it to stand out even when dwarfed by inner-city neighbours. As one of 10,000 arches that dissect neighbourhoods across London, it is a model that can be adapted for broad community benefit."
Sold? Archway Studios is currently listed at £975,000, about 1.3 million US dollars.
7 Comments
You'd think every millionaire-playboy-spy in the market for new digs would be lining up to buy!
The lack of windows in the spaces under the bridge are a real benefit to the likely-to-be-shot-at crowd.
Please tell me the rail line is still active.
It definitely is. That's a major route.
I like this.
I LOVE this. Clever use of constrained site and the interiors are gorgeous. And imagine how cool and sneaky you'd feel unlocking your little door under the tracks! So romantic and connected to the history of a site. Love.
You rang?
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